Hi,
I did officially complete my trip on Saturday!
I thank Avery, Courtney G., Janice, Tammy, Susan, Wendy, Jean, Michelle, Pam, Denise for all walking with me to LS. I want to thank Maria, Barry, Chris, Mel, Diane, Donna, Jacob, Mr. Kramer, Chris for all being there when we arrived at LS.
Thanks to Courtney D. for both walking with me and riding in with me to Boston Harbor.
I appreciate everyone's support of this journey that I took. It was a team effort!!!
Courtney was riding fast at some points of our journey east that day. I was taking my time - reflecting on all of the miles I had put in so far. I could tell that I did not want the journey to end. It was such a wonderful and amazing experience!!!! Why would I want it to end???
I already have started to plan my next trip. I have to. This is who I am.
My next trip will be hiking the Appalachian Trail all at once. I learned a lot from this trip and I will use that knowledge for this next journey.
Thanks to my brother Pete for our ride home from Newton.
I came home to a wonderful party in my neighborhood that evening. The Pine Lakes - The Birchwood Avenue Gang. Thanks to Lana, Paul, Sophia and Will for putting on a great party!!!
I will continue on as 'Coach Cate' and spread the message of healthy living to all those that I encounter.
One of my missions was to Exercise Across America - which I did. Another was to touch as many lives as I could - I feel that I did this to. The most amazing part of my trip though was how others touched my life. Each and everyday this happened!!! It was truly amazing and I want to do it again! And again!!! Love to you all!!!!
Coach Cate
Friday, June 24, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The Tornado that I missed!
I tackled the Berkshires!! They were not easy with my trailer.
Originally, I was going to find a campground and hang out and write for the day.
Since it was raining, I decided to keep on riding. There was no stopping me now.
I stopped in Granville at the General Store there. I had an egg sandwich, some mac and cheddar cheese and I was on my way east.
I rode to Springfield, past the Big 'E' and then into downtown.
All familiar territory. I was in the Commonwealth!!!
I first saw the damage of the tornado that went through a couple weeks before on the west side of the Connecticut River. Once I crossed the bridge, I saw even more. Wow!!
Massachusetts does not get many tornados.
I continued to ride east. I had schools to visit in Springfield, but not until Monday.
I decided to ride as much as I could this day and then I would have Courtney or Skyler pick me up. I figured I am so close now - why not just sleep in my bed tonight.
Although the rain had stopped; it was still cloudy and not too warm.
I stopped in the late afternoon for pizza. All those hills had made me really hungry. I could not figure out if it was Italian or Greek pizza. I prefer Italian!
As the afternoon went on, I saw even more damage for the tornado. When the tornado went through, I was in NJ. On the news, they stated that it went through Springfield. I did not realize that it went through Monson, Brimfield and parts of Sturbridge.
I ended up in Monson center at about 6:00 that evening. I was amazed at how much damage this small town had incurred.
Skyler picked me up in his truck to take me home for the night. Thanks Skyler.
Originally, I was going to find a campground and hang out and write for the day.
Since it was raining, I decided to keep on riding. There was no stopping me now.
I stopped in Granville at the General Store there. I had an egg sandwich, some mac and cheddar cheese and I was on my way east.
I rode to Springfield, past the Big 'E' and then into downtown.
All familiar territory. I was in the Commonwealth!!!
I first saw the damage of the tornado that went through a couple weeks before on the west side of the Connecticut River. Once I crossed the bridge, I saw even more. Wow!!
Massachusetts does not get many tornados.
I continued to ride east. I had schools to visit in Springfield, but not until Monday.
I decided to ride as much as I could this day and then I would have Courtney or Skyler pick me up. I figured I am so close now - why not just sleep in my bed tonight.
Although the rain had stopped; it was still cloudy and not too warm.
I stopped in the late afternoon for pizza. All those hills had made me really hungry. I could not figure out if it was Italian or Greek pizza. I prefer Italian!
As the afternoon went on, I saw even more damage for the tornado. When the tornado went through, I was in NJ. On the news, they stated that it went through Springfield. I did not realize that it went through Monson, Brimfield and parts of Sturbridge.
I ended up in Monson center at about 6:00 that evening. I was amazed at how much damage this small town had incurred.
Skyler picked me up in his truck to take me home for the night. Thanks Skyler.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Made it back to the Commonwealth!!!!
I have made it home after four and one half months on the road.
I rode up and down many hills in New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts to reach my second to last destination on this journey.
I do think that the highest grade of roads that I went up had to be here in the Commonwealth. I will be looking that up in the near future.
It was nice to visit the Catskills and then make my way back over the Hudson!
I thank the Clearwater Organization for letting me set up my tent at their camp.
I also want to thank Mary Kate for the awesome lunch in downtown Beacon. It was fun to spend time with her and the students at her school.
I then waited out a violent store on the eastern border of New York. Later that evening, I arrived in the Constitution State. I found a place to camp near a farm. The rains had finally stopped.
The northwest section of Connecticut is so beautiful. The farms, rolling hills and quaint little towns are so inviting.
I spoke to many high school students later on in the day in Falls Village. Thanks to the whole school community for their wonderful welcome.
Karen Rogers was also there to great me. She is on a quest to run a race in every town in Connecticut. She has two to go!!!!
I was then on a mission to reach my final state of the journey.
I crossed into the Commonwealth at about 4:30 that afternoon.
The roads had been familiar with me all day, as I have traveled through this area many times before.
The Appalachian Trail passes through this area. I have hiked both the Connecticut and Massachusetts sections of the trail.
Time to tackle the Berkshires. I knew that they would not be easy. I had already rode this route from east to west a couple of years ago.
I rode for a few more hours and then found a place to camp in the forest with many, many bugs. Some did get me and others tried to get me all night long. Thanks tent for protecting me and my blood.
Just as I broke camp the next morning, it started to pour, really pour!!! It was also cold, very cold. What happened to all of those hot, sticky days???
Here it was the middle of June and I think my lips were purple. At one point, I was standing outside a General Store in New Boston; it was raining cats and dogs. I had very little food. There was not much for me to choose from in the store. I knew that I had a very big climb ahead of me. It was time to eat whatever I had left and to hope for some decent food in the next ten miles or so.
The rain finally tapered off. Time to tackle that hill going through the Tolland State Forest.
(I am exhausted - to be continued tomorrow!)
I rode up and down many hills in New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts to reach my second to last destination on this journey.
I do think that the highest grade of roads that I went up had to be here in the Commonwealth. I will be looking that up in the near future.
It was nice to visit the Catskills and then make my way back over the Hudson!
I thank the Clearwater Organization for letting me set up my tent at their camp.
I also want to thank Mary Kate for the awesome lunch in downtown Beacon. It was fun to spend time with her and the students at her school.
I then waited out a violent store on the eastern border of New York. Later that evening, I arrived in the Constitution State. I found a place to camp near a farm. The rains had finally stopped.
The northwest section of Connecticut is so beautiful. The farms, rolling hills and quaint little towns are so inviting.
I spoke to many high school students later on in the day in Falls Village. Thanks to the whole school community for their wonderful welcome.
Karen Rogers was also there to great me. She is on a quest to run a race in every town in Connecticut. She has two to go!!!!
I was then on a mission to reach my final state of the journey.
I crossed into the Commonwealth at about 4:30 that afternoon.
The roads had been familiar with me all day, as I have traveled through this area many times before.
The Appalachian Trail passes through this area. I have hiked both the Connecticut and Massachusetts sections of the trail.
Time to tackle the Berkshires. I knew that they would not be easy. I had already rode this route from east to west a couple of years ago.
I rode for a few more hours and then found a place to camp in the forest with many, many bugs. Some did get me and others tried to get me all night long. Thanks tent for protecting me and my blood.
Just as I broke camp the next morning, it started to pour, really pour!!! It was also cold, very cold. What happened to all of those hot, sticky days???
Here it was the middle of June and I think my lips were purple. At one point, I was standing outside a General Store in New Boston; it was raining cats and dogs. I had very little food. There was not much for me to choose from in the store. I knew that I had a very big climb ahead of me. It was time to eat whatever I had left and to hope for some decent food in the next ten miles or so.
The rain finally tapered off. Time to tackle that hill going through the Tolland State Forest.
(I am exhausted - to be continued tomorrow!)
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
New Jersey/New York
I have been traveling through New Jersey and New York for a little while now.
I just completed my comeback tour of the Catskills Mountains, where I spent the first 18 years of my life.
I spoke at both the Tri-Valley Schools; this was on Monday.
Yesterday, I spoke at the Benjamin Cosor Elementary School and the Fallsburgh Jr/Sr High School. This was the ultimate give back. It was nice to be among all of my fellow Comets!
Before I arrived here in the Catskills. I stayed in Fairlawn, NJ and spoke at The Tenafly Middle School.
I have had so many Trail Angels the past few weeks!!!
A big THANK YOU to Jill, Kevin, The Francis A. Demarus School, The Basking Ridge School District, Mary Ellen, Tommy, Grace, Emily, Tom and Joan, Jordyn, Jeff, Judy, The Aarons, The Clinton Elementary School community, Brandon and the Brooklyn Dreams Charter School, Courtney, Skyler, Pete, Monine, April, JoAnn, Debbie, Sue,The Tenafly School District, Lynn, David, Sam, Jason, Susan and Gil, The Tri-Valley School District and the Fallsburgh School District.
I am heading to the Hudson River once more. I have crossed over it two times already on the trip. One more time to go!
I just completed my comeback tour of the Catskills Mountains, where I spent the first 18 years of my life.
I spoke at both the Tri-Valley Schools; this was on Monday.
Yesterday, I spoke at the Benjamin Cosor Elementary School and the Fallsburgh Jr/Sr High School. This was the ultimate give back. It was nice to be among all of my fellow Comets!
Before I arrived here in the Catskills. I stayed in Fairlawn, NJ and spoke at The Tenafly Middle School.
I have had so many Trail Angels the past few weeks!!!
A big THANK YOU to Jill, Kevin, The Francis A. Demarus School, The Basking Ridge School District, Mary Ellen, Tommy, Grace, Emily, Tom and Joan, Jordyn, Jeff, Judy, The Aarons, The Clinton Elementary School community, Brandon and the Brooklyn Dreams Charter School, Courtney, Skyler, Pete, Monine, April, JoAnn, Debbie, Sue,The Tenafly School District, Lynn, David, Sam, Jason, Susan and Gil, The Tri-Valley School District and the Fallsburgh School District.
I am heading to the Hudson River once more. I have crossed over it two times already on the trip. One more time to go!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
In the Garden State and the Big Apple
Wow!
I have been to some amazing schools in New Jersey and New York, since I last posted.
I have been to the Francis A. Desmares Elementary School in Flemington, NJ, the Four Corners Elementary School and Ridge High School in Basking Ridge, NJ, the Clinton Elementary School in Maplewood, NJ and the Brooklyn Dreams Charter School. I had such wonderful experiences at each of these schools!!!
I would like to thank all of these school communities for letting me visit and giving me the opportunity to get to know their students. It has meant a lot to me to be able to form close relationships with both the students and staff, in such a short period of time.
A tremendous part of my journey from the start, was to make an impact on as many people as I could. Of course, that always goes both ways. I can't describe properly the elated feelings I have, after I leave each school community that I visit. Love is a wonderful thing!!!
I have been to some amazing schools in New Jersey and New York, since I last posted.
I have been to the Francis A. Desmares Elementary School in Flemington, NJ, the Four Corners Elementary School and Ridge High School in Basking Ridge, NJ, the Clinton Elementary School in Maplewood, NJ and the Brooklyn Dreams Charter School. I had such wonderful experiences at each of these schools!!!
I would like to thank all of these school communities for letting me visit and giving me the opportunity to get to know their students. It has meant a lot to me to be able to form close relationships with both the students and staff, in such a short period of time.
A tremendous part of my journey from the start, was to make an impact on as many people as I could. Of course, that always goes both ways. I can't describe properly the elated feelings I have, after I leave each school community that I visit. Love is a wonderful thing!!!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Delaware and Once Again Pennsylvania
I rode up the coast of Delaware; on some very country roads.
The threat of rain upon me almost everyday.
I did get wet here and there, but it was not too bad.
The suburbs of Wilmington were my next destination. It reminded me of back home in the suburbs of Boston. Lots of trees and windy roads.
I then rode up to the suburbs of Philadelphia. Again, very similar to where I live.
I camped for many nights in a row.
On Sunday, I stayed in a mansion in Fairmont Park in Philadelphia. This is where one of the youth hostels are located. What a great building. I met many other travelers here; including River Guide, who is hiking on the AT.
I spoke to a couple of school in southeast Philadelphia. I then went to the Reading Terminal Market to have a pretzel. It was very good! I had heard about how good these pretzels where. In 2004, on our ballpark tour, Courtney and I went to try them. The market was not open the day we were touring the city. Seven years later, I made sure to stop by to sample them. It was worth the wait.
I enjoyed cycling in the city, with my tour guide Steve Taylor. He is with the Bicycle Coalition of Philadelphia. Thanks Steve!
The threat of rain upon me almost everyday.
I did get wet here and there, but it was not too bad.
The suburbs of Wilmington were my next destination. It reminded me of back home in the suburbs of Boston. Lots of trees and windy roads.
I then rode up to the suburbs of Philadelphia. Again, very similar to where I live.
I camped for many nights in a row.
On Sunday, I stayed in a mansion in Fairmont Park in Philadelphia. This is where one of the youth hostels are located. What a great building. I met many other travelers here; including River Guide, who is hiking on the AT.
I spoke to a couple of school in southeast Philadelphia. I then went to the Reading Terminal Market to have a pretzel. It was very good! I had heard about how good these pretzels where. In 2004, on our ballpark tour, Courtney and I went to try them. The market was not open the day we were touring the city. Seven years later, I made sure to stop by to sample them. It was worth the wait.
I enjoyed cycling in the city, with my tour guide Steve Taylor. He is with the Bicycle Coalition of Philadelphia. Thanks Steve!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
The Atlantic Ocean was my final destination yesterday!
I did reach the Atlantic Ocean yesterday, after traveling three months and 18 days.
It was a rainy and windy day!
I arrived at Little Creek, DE in the afternoon.
While I was there, I met some birders from West Virginia.
I decided to hang out there for awhile and think about all the people that helped me to get across the country.
As afternoon turned into evening, the sun started to break through the clouds.
On the beach, I turned over many horseshoe crabs that were stranded on the beach. The high tides that were happening, due to the full moon, caused them to be higher on the shore.
I also enjoyed the birds migrating from Brazil, that gave me many flying shows.
I want to thank Ina and Ronnie Yoder from Greenwood, DE for being Trail Angels to me. It was so nice to meet you and talk about Holmes County, Ohio. Thanks for all that you did for me!!
It was a rainy and windy day!
I arrived at Little Creek, DE in the afternoon.
While I was there, I met some birders from West Virginia.
I decided to hang out there for awhile and think about all the people that helped me to get across the country.
As afternoon turned into evening, the sun started to break through the clouds.
On the beach, I turned over many horseshoe crabs that were stranded on the beach. The high tides that were happening, due to the full moon, caused them to be higher on the shore.
I also enjoyed the birds migrating from Brazil, that gave me many flying shows.
I want to thank Ina and Ronnie Yoder from Greenwood, DE for being Trail Angels to me. It was so nice to meet you and talk about Holmes County, Ohio. Thanks for all that you did for me!!
Monday, May 16, 2011
I am in Annapolis, Maryland
Hi,
I know that I have not posted in quite awhile.
A lot has happened.
I made it to DC and now I am east of our Nation's Capital. Not too many miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Annapolis is a beautiful city right on the water.
It will be a joyous occasion to reach the Atlantic in a day or so and officially say I have gone Coast to Coast.
Meanwhile; my daughter, Courtney just graduated from UMass Amherst this past Friday. I am so proud of her!! Way to go Halfpint!!!! It was nice to be home for a few days among family and friends.
Since I last posted - I have met more wonderful people.
Cindy and Pearl - Thanks for everything!!!
I also had the opportunity to attend the Presidential Council on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition last Tuesday on Capital Hill. I was among many dedicated professionals who are committed to making our nation a healthy nation again. I plan to attend many more meetings of this council.
I know that I have not posted in quite awhile.
A lot has happened.
I made it to DC and now I am east of our Nation's Capital. Not too many miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Annapolis is a beautiful city right on the water.
It will be a joyous occasion to reach the Atlantic in a day or so and officially say I have gone Coast to Coast.
Meanwhile; my daughter, Courtney just graduated from UMass Amherst this past Friday. I am so proud of her!! Way to go Halfpint!!!! It was nice to be home for a few days among family and friends.
Since I last posted - I have met more wonderful people.
Cindy and Pearl - Thanks for everything!!!
I also had the opportunity to attend the Presidential Council on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition last Tuesday on Capital Hill. I was among many dedicated professionals who are committed to making our nation a healthy nation again. I plan to attend many more meetings of this council.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Great Allegheny Passage
Yesterday was a 50 mile or so ride in the rain.
I was on the Great Allegheny Passage, a rail trail which goes from Pittsburgh,PA to Cumberland, MA.
Late in the afternoon, I crossed the Mason-Dixon Line into Maryland.
I was all wet and muddy. It was a great day!
I was on the Great Allegheny Passage, a rail trail which goes from Pittsburgh,PA to Cumberland, MA.
Late in the afternoon, I crossed the Mason-Dixon Line into Maryland.
I was all wet and muddy. It was a great day!
West Virginia
Today I met my new friend Mason in the beautiful hills of West Virginia.
It was a nice sunny day to ride!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
My 8th State, Indiana!
I crossed into my 8th state today!!
It has been cold and rainy.
Yesterday there were thunderstorms, hail and the threat of a tornado.
To date :
I have traveled through 7 states.
Exercised about 2850 miles .
Visited 35 schools and talked to over 9000 students.
Met many amazing people along the way.
Trail Angels have appeared in every state.
The number of hugs I have given and received : too many to count!!!
It has been cold and rainy.
Yesterday there were thunderstorms, hail and the threat of a tornado.
To date :
I have traveled through 7 states.
Exercised about 2850 miles .
Visited 35 schools and talked to over 9000 students.
Met many amazing people along the way.
Trail Angels have appeared in every state.
The number of hugs I have given and received : too many to count!!!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
The Land of Lincoln
I arrived in The Land of Lincoln yesterday. I cycled over the Mighty Mississippi, after spending a little time in the beautiful town of Burlington, Iowa.
The previous two days I cycled into a strong headwind, with many raindrops falling on me.
I spent about 5 days in the State of Iowa. There are many very nice people that I met while I traveled through the Hawkeye State.
I do have to say that this had to be the worse state yet for cycling. Most all of the roads I encountered, had no paved shoulders.
The previous two days I cycled into a strong headwind, with many raindrops falling on me.
I spent about 5 days in the State of Iowa. There are many very nice people that I met while I traveled through the Hawkeye State.
I do have to say that this had to be the worse state yet for cycling. Most all of the roads I encountered, had no paved shoulders.
Thanks to all my new friends in Iowa!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
I am Safe In Friendly Iowa
HI,
I arrived in the beautiful state of Iowa, yesterday.
I spoke at the West Lake Middle School in the morning. I stayed the night before with my new friend Virgie, who is a PE teacher at this school. She is also the Nebraska AAHPERD Treasurer. On Sunday, I also go to meet her sister, brother-in-law and her nieces and nephew. It was a very nice way to end my visit through the Corn husker state.
Yes I did enter my 6th state and it is a hilly state. If you think Iowa is flat; it is not in the part that I am riding through. In fact, I started to climb more hills once I was near the Lincoln, NE area.
Today I cycled at least 36 hills. I decided to count them.
This morning I spoke at the Riverside Middle School; home to about 200 students. It is in the awesome town of Carson, Iowa. I camped in their city park last night; right near their rodeo arena.
Even though I have only been in Iowa for a little over 24 hours; I have to say that this state is so very friendly!
I arrived in the beautiful state of Iowa, yesterday.
I spoke at the West Lake Middle School in the morning. I stayed the night before with my new friend Virgie, who is a PE teacher at this school. She is also the Nebraska AAHPERD Treasurer. On Sunday, I also go to meet her sister, brother-in-law and her nieces and nephew. It was a very nice way to end my visit through the Corn husker state.
Yes I did enter my 6th state and it is a hilly state. If you think Iowa is flat; it is not in the part that I am riding through. In fact, I started to climb more hills once I was near the Lincoln, NE area.
Today I cycled at least 36 hills. I decided to count them.
This morning I spoke at the Riverside Middle School; home to about 200 students. It is in the awesome town of Carson, Iowa. I camped in their city park last night; right near their rodeo arena.
Even though I have only been in Iowa for a little over 24 hours; I have to say that this state is so very friendly!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Zero Day In Nebraska
Yesterday I rode about 20 miles to get to Raymond, NE. The sun was out, but it was another windy day. The winds were coming from the north/northwest. These are the cooler winds, as the winds coming from the south/southwest are usually warmer.
I arrived at my friend's Mary and Dan's house later on in the afternoon. They live on a small farm, with two horses. It was so nice to see familiar faces, even though I just met them a few days ago.
After Mary got home from work, we went into the Capital City of Lincoln for a nice dinner right across from their train station. The area that we dined in, is not far from the University of Nebraska. It is a very cool section of the city, with many nice shops and places to eat. There were many motorcyclists there, as they meet downtown, every now and then.
I am being bestowed with much love from my new friends and I am so grateful for this.
I often wonder, how I can give back the love that so many people have given me. I am just amazed and touched by everyone who has helped me. I feel very blessed.
I am taking a zero day; as referred to on the Appalachian Trail. This is a day, when I will not exercise to make my way east. I am catching up on things; such as my blog(still trying to figure why I can't upload photos), laundry, thank you notes and my journal. I will also go for a walk around the neighborhood. I have been putting in a lot of miles lately and needed time to just reflect on all of the good things that have been coming my way.
Thanks everyone!!!
I arrived at my friend's Mary and Dan's house later on in the afternoon. They live on a small farm, with two horses. It was so nice to see familiar faces, even though I just met them a few days ago.
After Mary got home from work, we went into the Capital City of Lincoln for a nice dinner right across from their train station. The area that we dined in, is not far from the University of Nebraska. It is a very cool section of the city, with many nice shops and places to eat. There were many motorcyclists there, as they meet downtown, every now and then.
I am being bestowed with much love from my new friends and I am so grateful for this.
I often wonder, how I can give back the love that so many people have given me. I am just amazed and touched by everyone who has helped me. I feel very blessed.
I am taking a zero day; as referred to on the Appalachian Trail. This is a day, when I will not exercise to make my way east. I am catching up on things; such as my blog(still trying to figure why I can't upload photos), laundry, thank you notes and my journal. I will also go for a walk around the neighborhood. I have been putting in a lot of miles lately and needed time to just reflect on all of the good things that have been coming my way.
Thanks everyone!!!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Flying ThroughThe Corn Husker State
Hi all,
I have tried to update this through my phone and I could not. I am also still having difficulty uploading pictures. I do realize that I have been doing a lot of miles and have not taken the time to remedy this problems. Sorry.
Nebraska - The Corn Husker State - because it produces the most corn in the US (even more than Iowa).
I have had a chance to ride along side of many of these fields. The remnants of last year's crop is still apparent. The farmers are just now tending to the fields to get them ready to plant the new batch.
Mostly what I have seen since I arrived in this state are fields and cattle ranches. I have been in the central section of the state; which has been relatively flat. The winds have been fierce at times.
The first day I arrived in the state, I stopped at the post office to purchase some stamps. I mentioned to the clerk about the winds. She said: "Welcome to Nebraska".
I have met many wonderful people here. I camped in the town gazebo in Paxton. I then camped in the town park in Gothenburg. I visited the Pony Express Museum there. Also a stop over for the Mormons going on their journey west to Salt Lake City.
I did follow a road that the Oregon pioneers traveled on; which is very cool for me, since I have Oregon ties.
I also was in the town of Cozad, which is at the 100th meridian. They say that this town if the divider, between the humidity of the country. I did think it was a little more humid, once I crossed over that line.
In the middle of the state is a town called Kearney. It is actually the center of the US - east to west. It is 1733 miles to Boston and 1733 miles to San Francisco. To of my favorite places in the world. Here I took in more history, as they have a few cool museums to visit. The first was the River Platte Experience; which is over Interstate 80. Riding up to it; I recognized it immediately from previous trips out west. This was a very well done museum. I highly recommend it.
I was then off to Fort Kearney, which was a stop over for the people going west to Oregon.
I would camp at the Fort Kearney Recreation Area that night. This is a main stopover for the sand hill cranes during their migration north. They stay here for about 3-4 weeks to fatten up and continue their journey north. I had been watching them in the fields for a few days now crossing the state. It was a wonderful site to see so many of them at once. I even got to see them dancing. Very cool!!!
After Kearney, I traveled through many small towns and heavy winds to arrive in Grand Island. Where there are few trees to block the wind, it can be tough riding. Believe me; where I have been in Nebraska, there have been very few trees.
I camped at the Mormon Island State Park, just below Grand Island. There were a few cranes here. Not as many as Fort Kearney. It was a nice place to camp and the winds had finally died down. It was going to be a cold night though; below 20 degrees.
The next day was warm - about 70. I could wear just shorts again! I rode 65 plus miles this day and arrived in Seward, NE later on in the evening. I camped at their town campground called Blue Valley. It was another day through the cornfields, but the town started to change a little. I began to go through towns that reminded me of the east. I think I had crossed over the halfway points not only for distance and humidity, but for some of the cultural differences between the east and west also.
Tonight I will be staying with friends I just met during my visit to Fort Kearney. I look forward to this, as I have camped six nights in a row and I am looking forward to getting to know both Mary and Dan better.
I have cycled a lot during the past week. I am now over the 2,000 mile mark and I am just about 70 miles from Iowa.
I have tried to update this through my phone and I could not. I am also still having difficulty uploading pictures. I do realize that I have been doing a lot of miles and have not taken the time to remedy this problems. Sorry.
Nebraska - The Corn Husker State - because it produces the most corn in the US (even more than Iowa).
I have had a chance to ride along side of many of these fields. The remnants of last year's crop is still apparent. The farmers are just now tending to the fields to get them ready to plant the new batch.
Mostly what I have seen since I arrived in this state are fields and cattle ranches. I have been in the central section of the state; which has been relatively flat. The winds have been fierce at times.
The first day I arrived in the state, I stopped at the post office to purchase some stamps. I mentioned to the clerk about the winds. She said: "Welcome to Nebraska".
I have met many wonderful people here. I camped in the town gazebo in Paxton. I then camped in the town park in Gothenburg. I visited the Pony Express Museum there. Also a stop over for the Mormons going on their journey west to Salt Lake City.
I did follow a road that the Oregon pioneers traveled on; which is very cool for me, since I have Oregon ties.
I also was in the town of Cozad, which is at the 100th meridian. They say that this town if the divider, between the humidity of the country. I did think it was a little more humid, once I crossed over that line.
In the middle of the state is a town called Kearney. It is actually the center of the US - east to west. It is 1733 miles to Boston and 1733 miles to San Francisco. To of my favorite places in the world. Here I took in more history, as they have a few cool museums to visit. The first was the River Platte Experience; which is over Interstate 80. Riding up to it; I recognized it immediately from previous trips out west. This was a very well done museum. I highly recommend it.
I was then off to Fort Kearney, which was a stop over for the people going west to Oregon.
I would camp at the Fort Kearney Recreation Area that night. This is a main stopover for the sand hill cranes during their migration north. They stay here for about 3-4 weeks to fatten up and continue their journey north. I had been watching them in the fields for a few days now crossing the state. It was a wonderful site to see so many of them at once. I even got to see them dancing. Very cool!!!
After Kearney, I traveled through many small towns and heavy winds to arrive in Grand Island. Where there are few trees to block the wind, it can be tough riding. Believe me; where I have been in Nebraska, there have been very few trees.
I camped at the Mormon Island State Park, just below Grand Island. There were a few cranes here. Not as many as Fort Kearney. It was a nice place to camp and the winds had finally died down. It was going to be a cold night though; below 20 degrees.
The next day was warm - about 70. I could wear just shorts again! I rode 65 plus miles this day and arrived in Seward, NE later on in the evening. I camped at their town campground called Blue Valley. It was another day through the cornfields, but the town started to change a little. I began to go through towns that reminded me of the east. I think I had crossed over the halfway points not only for distance and humidity, but for some of the cultural differences between the east and west also.
Tonight I will be staying with friends I just met during my visit to Fort Kearney. I look forward to this, as I have camped six nights in a row and I am looking forward to getting to know both Mary and Dan better.
I have cycled a lot during the past week. I am now over the 2,000 mile mark and I am just about 70 miles from Iowa.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Thanks Colorado - Almost to Nebraska!!
Hi,
I am finally at a computer again to update you on my happenings!!
I am in Sterling, Colorado presently. I am in their library; using their computer.
For the first time ever, I am in a library that has a flat screen T.V. on the wall with the news on. Wow!!
Well today, I woke up in the tall grasses with a few cows across the fence. I camped last night just off Route 14 in Colorado after cycling over 60 miles yesterday. The clouds were amazing all day and I could see forever.
I am almost in Nebraska. Maybe about 60 miles away. It will be my 5th state to travel to.
My recap of Colorado..... I started off in Colorado at about 7,500 feet in elevation. I went up to about 9,500 feet one morning. I had a 5 mile ascent up the pass. This was after sleeping up in the mountains with snow around me and some snow falling when I woke up. It was cold and windy that night.
During my stay here in Colorado; I have been through the towns of San Luis, Fort Garland, Walsenburg, Colorado City, Pueblo, Black Forest, Frank Town, Parker, Aurora, Denver, Evans, Greeley, Gill, Stoneham and now Sterling. I have a few more towns to go.
I spoke with many students in the Denver area. I would have liked to have visited more schools, but a lot of schools are on spring break at this time.
I have again met so many wonderful people along my way. It is amazing how many people have wanted to help me out.
Some of these people are Joan and Bob in Pueblo, Angie in Black Forest, Patricia in Aurora, Kathleen and Alexis in Denver.
I have had trouble uploading my photos. So I hope to be able to post those soon.
Even though I have encountered many climbs up mountains, strong winds and some flats - I am still finding the hardest part of my trip is to leave the people that I have made strong connections with in such a short period of time.
Thanks to all of you who have made my visit to Colorado a memorable one!!!
I am finally at a computer again to update you on my happenings!!
I am in Sterling, Colorado presently. I am in their library; using their computer.
For the first time ever, I am in a library that has a flat screen T.V. on the wall with the news on. Wow!!
Well today, I woke up in the tall grasses with a few cows across the fence. I camped last night just off Route 14 in Colorado after cycling over 60 miles yesterday. The clouds were amazing all day and I could see forever.
I am almost in Nebraska. Maybe about 60 miles away. It will be my 5th state to travel to.
My recap of Colorado..... I started off in Colorado at about 7,500 feet in elevation. I went up to about 9,500 feet one morning. I had a 5 mile ascent up the pass. This was after sleeping up in the mountains with snow around me and some snow falling when I woke up. It was cold and windy that night.
During my stay here in Colorado; I have been through the towns of San Luis, Fort Garland, Walsenburg, Colorado City, Pueblo, Black Forest, Frank Town, Parker, Aurora, Denver, Evans, Greeley, Gill, Stoneham and now Sterling. I have a few more towns to go.
I spoke with many students in the Denver area. I would have liked to have visited more schools, but a lot of schools are on spring break at this time.
I have again met so many wonderful people along my way. It is amazing how many people have wanted to help me out.
Some of these people are Joan and Bob in Pueblo, Angie in Black Forest, Patricia in Aurora, Kathleen and Alexis in Denver.
I have had trouble uploading my photos. So I hope to be able to post those soon.
Even though I have encountered many climbs up mountains, strong winds and some flats - I am still finding the hardest part of my trip is to leave the people that I have made strong connections with in such a short period of time.
Thanks to all of you who have made my visit to Colorado a memorable one!!!
Monday, March 21, 2011
State Number 4 - Colorado
March 18th-March 21st
I made it to my next state later on that morning. This road was very remote. Not many cars and the shoulder a decent size. Most of the time, I hugged the line and vehicles went around me.
It was a lonely ride to the border. I did stop a mile before the border to charge my phone. I was out of service, but I wanted it charged for pictures and just in case I was in the zone again.
I rode for many miles with wilderness and mountains in the background. There were not many towns that I rode through that day.
Around lunch time I arrived in the oldest town of Colorado; San Luis. I tried to go to the library, but it was closed on Friday. I rode around and then ate at a small sandwich place.
I then rode on to Fort Garland. The winds had picked up and they were really blowing. It was getting cloudy and colder. I decided to hang out in Fort Garland for a couple of hours to write. I knew that a big pass was coming up, but I wanted to camp on the western side of it. I was still thinking of bears and not being able to hang my food.
I started riding again at 4:00, knowing that I had a few hours because of the time change. At close to 6:00, I started to seriously look for a place. I was now out of the sage brush and into the forest with snow on the ground.
I finally found a place not far from the road, but up off of it.
The ground was muddy and wet. Snow was within feet of were I set up camp. I knew that I was taking a chance with the bears; although there was a lot of traffic on the road.
Later on that night, the winds really started to whip around. I had to go out to secure my tent. The moon was not visible all of the time, because of the clouds.
It was getting cold and colder, because of the heavy winds. I was not sheltered at all.
I made it through the night and immediately had a climb of 5 miles ahead of me to get to the top of the pass, which was about 9.600 feet. I did it and felt very good after I did. Fresh legs at the beginning of the day definitely helped.
It was downhill for awhile and then I was in the Plains.
I road into Walsenburg and the winds were really picking up. I again went to the library to try to catch up on my blog, but it was closed.
I stopped at a grocery store to get some drinks and charge my phone. Even though I had just gone many miles, I still wanted to do at least 20 more for the day.
When I got the Interstate 25 the winds almost blew me over. I decided to wait a couple of hours and try again. I checked the forecast and I checked to see if I could go on any secondary roads.
After waiting, I gave it another go. There were a few frontage roads to ride on and the winds had subdued a little. I did ride another 20 miles to Colorado City.
I camped at the KOA, behind a cabin. Lucky for me, as the winds reached 60 miles per hour that night. Even though I was sheltered for the most part, the winds still rocked my tent for a few hours.
The next day I rode to Pueblo. Some miles on the interstate and some on a frontage road. I did see one prairie dog town, which was really cool!
I met my new friends Joan and Bob, who are friends of Rike, Leo, Mary Ann and Bruce from Albuquerque. I would be staying with them for a few nights.
I made it to my next state later on that morning. This road was very remote. Not many cars and the shoulder a decent size. Most of the time, I hugged the line and vehicles went around me.
It was a lonely ride to the border. I did stop a mile before the border to charge my phone. I was out of service, but I wanted it charged for pictures and just in case I was in the zone again.
I rode for many miles with wilderness and mountains in the background. There were not many towns that I rode through that day.
Around lunch time I arrived in the oldest town of Colorado; San Luis. I tried to go to the library, but it was closed on Friday. I rode around and then ate at a small sandwich place.
I then rode on to Fort Garland. The winds had picked up and they were really blowing. It was getting cloudy and colder. I decided to hang out in Fort Garland for a couple of hours to write. I knew that a big pass was coming up, but I wanted to camp on the western side of it. I was still thinking of bears and not being able to hang my food.
I started riding again at 4:00, knowing that I had a few hours because of the time change. At close to 6:00, I started to seriously look for a place. I was now out of the sage brush and into the forest with snow on the ground.
I finally found a place not far from the road, but up off of it.
The ground was muddy and wet. Snow was within feet of were I set up camp. I knew that I was taking a chance with the bears; although there was a lot of traffic on the road.
Later on that night, the winds really started to whip around. I had to go out to secure my tent. The moon was not visible all of the time, because of the clouds.
It was getting cold and colder, because of the heavy winds. I was not sheltered at all.
I made it through the night and immediately had a climb of 5 miles ahead of me to get to the top of the pass, which was about 9.600 feet. I did it and felt very good after I did. Fresh legs at the beginning of the day definitely helped.
It was downhill for awhile and then I was in the Plains.
I road into Walsenburg and the winds were really picking up. I again went to the library to try to catch up on my blog, but it was closed.
I stopped at a grocery store to get some drinks and charge my phone. Even though I had just gone many miles, I still wanted to do at least 20 more for the day.
When I got the Interstate 25 the winds almost blew me over. I decided to wait a couple of hours and try again. I checked the forecast and I checked to see if I could go on any secondary roads.
After waiting, I gave it another go. There were a few frontage roads to ride on and the winds had subdued a little. I did ride another 20 miles to Colorado City.
I camped at the KOA, behind a cabin. Lucky for me, as the winds reached 60 miles per hour that night. Even though I was sheltered for the most part, the winds still rocked my tent for a few hours.
The next day I rode to Pueblo. Some miles on the interstate and some on a frontage road. I did see one prairie dog town, which was really cool!
I met my new friends Joan and Bob, who are friends of Rike, Leo, Mary Ann and Bruce from Albuquerque. I would be staying with them for a few nights.
Taos - New Mexico
March 16th-March 17th
When I woke up to another sunny day, I packed and headed to Taos. This is a town that is near one of New Mexico's biggest ski areas.
I was immediately treated to a nice ride along the Rio Grande river. The road snaked along some farming fields and small canyons.
I stopped for lunch at the River Gorge Visitor Center. I had my gourmet lunch of goat cheese with blueberries, almonds, greens on a whole wheat tortilla. I washed it down with organic chocolate milk. This is the way to eat on the road!!
I meet a young gentleman from Korea who was also riding his bike. He started in San Francisco and was also riding to Boston. Once he gets to Boston, he will ride up to Canada and then back across to the west coast. He was very nice and friendly. Good luck to him.
It was uphill after lunch. I mean uphill!! One of my biggest climbs so far and then there was another climb. I climbed a lot that afternoon. The snow covered mountains a constant visual.
I arrived in Taos at about 2:30. I went to the visitor center and asked about lodging.
They did tell me that there were campsites up on the river, about 3 miles or so from town.
I hung out at the visitor center to charge my phone and read a little. I then headed up into the canyon.
It was an uphill climb at the end of the day. My legs were tired, but I kept on going. I found one of the campgrounds and no one was there.
I checked them out. Snow was still on the ground at some of the sites. I was about to start unpacking at a site, when I saw some fresh tracks of an animal. I could immediately tell that they were not dog tracks. Even though one of the women at the visitor center said that there would be no problem with bears; these tracks were definitely looking like that it what they came from.
I had a lot of food with me from my stocking up in Santa Fe, so I decided to ride back down and camp closer to town.
There were no bears where I camped that night.
I proceeded to the Taos Middle School that morning to talk to two Physical Education Classes and another class in the building. The PE classes were in their Archery Unit. I learned a lot that I could bring back to Cougar Pride Land at my school in Sudbury. The students there were very attentive and asked some great questions.
I had some lunch and then I headed to the Ranchos Elementary School, three miles south of the Middle School.
Here I spoke to many of the upper grades and lower grades in the gymnasium. These students were also a great audience. They were in their bowling unit at this school.
After speaking to the students in the gym, I went to Mrs. Trujillo's class. There were in the middle of presenting their research on Courageous Americans. I spoke to them and then they had tons of questions for me. They asked who has inspired me. I told them about two of my heroines; Amelia Earhart and Harriet Tubman.
Everybody at this school was so welcoming; just like all of the other schools I have visited.
After the school visits, I head to the Taos Plaza. I read for a little while and then walked around. I met a family from originally from Ecuador, who now live in Dallas.
As I headed out of town, I was still hungry. I knew that I was going into some pretty remote areas for some time. I was in the mood for pizza and usually in ski towns you will find a good pizza place. I did and I stopped, even though it was getting late and I wanted to ride at least 30 miles or so.
The pizza was very good and I did ride 40 to get home for the night. It was just off the highway, with the snow covered mountains close by. I found a sheltered spot and listening to the coyotes for awhile. They were the closest yet of any of the nights that I had slept out. The wind also was picking up, but I did shelter myself well. It was not quite a full moon, but it was close.
When I woke up to another sunny day, I packed and headed to Taos. This is a town that is near one of New Mexico's biggest ski areas.
I was immediately treated to a nice ride along the Rio Grande river. The road snaked along some farming fields and small canyons.
I stopped for lunch at the River Gorge Visitor Center. I had my gourmet lunch of goat cheese with blueberries, almonds, greens on a whole wheat tortilla. I washed it down with organic chocolate milk. This is the way to eat on the road!!
I meet a young gentleman from Korea who was also riding his bike. He started in San Francisco and was also riding to Boston. Once he gets to Boston, he will ride up to Canada and then back across to the west coast. He was very nice and friendly. Good luck to him.
It was uphill after lunch. I mean uphill!! One of my biggest climbs so far and then there was another climb. I climbed a lot that afternoon. The snow covered mountains a constant visual.
I arrived in Taos at about 2:30. I went to the visitor center and asked about lodging.
They did tell me that there were campsites up on the river, about 3 miles or so from town.
I hung out at the visitor center to charge my phone and read a little. I then headed up into the canyon.
It was an uphill climb at the end of the day. My legs were tired, but I kept on going. I found one of the campgrounds and no one was there.
I checked them out. Snow was still on the ground at some of the sites. I was about to start unpacking at a site, when I saw some fresh tracks of an animal. I could immediately tell that they were not dog tracks. Even though one of the women at the visitor center said that there would be no problem with bears; these tracks were definitely looking like that it what they came from.
I had a lot of food with me from my stocking up in Santa Fe, so I decided to ride back down and camp closer to town.
There were no bears where I camped that night.
I proceeded to the Taos Middle School that morning to talk to two Physical Education Classes and another class in the building. The PE classes were in their Archery Unit. I learned a lot that I could bring back to Cougar Pride Land at my school in Sudbury. The students there were very attentive and asked some great questions.
I had some lunch and then I headed to the Ranchos Elementary School, three miles south of the Middle School.
Here I spoke to many of the upper grades and lower grades in the gymnasium. These students were also a great audience. They were in their bowling unit at this school.
After speaking to the students in the gym, I went to Mrs. Trujillo's class. There were in the middle of presenting their research on Courageous Americans. I spoke to them and then they had tons of questions for me. They asked who has inspired me. I told them about two of my heroines; Amelia Earhart and Harriet Tubman.
Everybody at this school was so welcoming; just like all of the other schools I have visited.
After the school visits, I head to the Taos Plaza. I read for a little while and then walked around. I met a family from originally from Ecuador, who now live in Dallas.
As I headed out of town, I was still hungry. I knew that I was going into some pretty remote areas for some time. I was in the mood for pizza and usually in ski towns you will find a good pizza place. I did and I stopped, even though it was getting late and I wanted to ride at least 30 miles or so.
The pizza was very good and I did ride 40 to get home for the night. It was just off the highway, with the snow covered mountains close by. I found a sheltered spot and listening to the coyotes for awhile. They were the closest yet of any of the nights that I had slept out. The wind also was picking up, but I did shelter myself well. It was not quite a full moon, but it was close.
Santa Fe - New Mexico
After Rike dropped me off, I had a long climb up on Interstate 25. I had to ride on this road most of the way to Santa Fe. Many vehicles zooming by again, but not as bad as I-10.
I had not really spent anytime in Sante Fe before, so I was excited about going there. This was also true of Albuquerque.
I arrived in Santa Fe at the later part of the afternoon. I was going to stay at the youth hostel there, but decided against it as it did not look very appealing from the outside. I reread some of the reviews about it and decided I wanted a better place to stay for the night. I have stayed at some youth hostels in the past, that I would not stay at again(even for $18.00).
I decided to backtrack to the Motel 6 and pay 33.99 plus tax for the night. I rode down to the Sunflower Market(a healthy food store chain in the west), but was not too impressed with it.
No problem, since I knew that I would go to good old Trader Joe's to stock up on some good food the next day.
I caught up on letter writing and my journal. I was missing my friends in Albuquerque though.
When I woke up I rode to TJ's and then to REI to exchange my sleeping pad, as it had a hole in it from sleeping in the desert. Thanks to the Santa Fe REI for their great customer service. They exchanged the pad that I had used on previous trips also, with no problems. Great customer service is the way to go!!!
I then rode to the Round House, as they call it in New Mexico. This is what the capital building is called. It is a beautiful building, inside and out. There was a lot going on. I checked out the session that was going on in their great hall.
Then it was time to go to the Plaza at Santa Fe. Sort of like our Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall in Boston. It was very nice and beautiful, with many shops and places to eat. Similar to Albuquerque's Old Town Plaza. I loved it!!!
After that I went to Congressman Tom Udall's office to talk with either him or his staff about the importance of healthy living for all. They were very nice and receptive to me there. Thanks for being teammates on the mission for all of us to be healthy.
I left Santa Fe at about 3:00 and headed north again. I had a steep climb up and then I went downhill for awhile.
I went through a few small towns and then Espanola.
After Espanola, I found State Land to set my tent up for the night.
I found shelter behind some bushes and had some dinner.
Shortly after it getting dark, I heard the first shot. I had seen on the sign at the entrance to the land that there was a target shooting area.
I listened to someone shooting for a good hour that night. Then it was the howling of coyotes and dogs across the highway.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
March 10-March 14 2011
I had a blast in Albuquerque. I met so many wonderful people!!
On Thursday night, I stayed with my new friends Rike and Leo. I arrived at their house late Thursday afternoon. Leo came home from work and we talked for a long time, before Rike arrived home.
They both took me out to dinner that night.
Rike and I rode to her school on Friday morning.
I visited both the Painted Sky and Seven Bar Elementary Schools on Friday. They both have awesome, dedicated Physical Education Teachers and wonderful students!!!
In between school visits, I hiked around the Petroglyphs National Monument.
On Friday night, my new friend Bruce was able to get me a room at the Courtyard Marriott in town. After school, he rode down with me to check into my room. Thanks to both Bruce and Kathy for that. Bruce is one of the PE teachers at 7 Bar Elementary and Kathy is the Guest Services Manager at the Marriott. That night, Bruce, his wife Bonnie and his son Taylor took me out to dinner.
Along the bike trail on Saturday, I met Sandy, a native New Yorker on my way to Bruce's house. She was a PE teacher at one time. She also taught many years as a Special Educator. She is an avid cyclist.
Saturday afternoon, I had to fix my trailer as one of the wheels fell off and I almost crashed. Luckily, Rike and Leo came to my rescue and we went to Lowe's to remedy the situation for $2.36. They then took me hiking. We also drove through many Native American Pueblos.
After the hike, we all went to Bruce's house for dinner; which was very good. I was to stay with Bruce and his family for the night. They would be leaving on a college visit in southern New Mexico for their daughter Tori, in the morning.
On Sunday afternoon, Rike and I cycled to the San Felipe Pueblo (part of my route north). It was so nice to ride with her, even if there was a headwind almost the whole way. We stopped to have lunch at a Mexican eatery. I had the combination plate. It was yummy.
That night, they took me to their friends Mary Ann and Bruce's house where we had a wonderful St. Patrick's meal.
On Monday morning, Rike took me to the spot where we had stopped yesterday. We first went to the building where Leo works, so we could say farewell for now.
It was really hard to leave Albuquerque. As I said earlier, I met so many nice people and made close strong connections with them in such a short period of time.
Some people have asked what have been some of my struggles with my journey. One of the struggles has been to leave the people that have been so kind to me and who I have made these strong connections with. My hope is that we will always stay connected!!!
On Thursday night, I stayed with my new friends Rike and Leo. I arrived at their house late Thursday afternoon. Leo came home from work and we talked for a long time, before Rike arrived home.
They both took me out to dinner that night.
Rike and I rode to her school on Friday morning.
In between school visits, I hiked around the Petroglyphs National Monument.
On Friday night, my new friend Bruce was able to get me a room at the Courtyard Marriott in town. After school, he rode down with me to check into my room. Thanks to both Bruce and Kathy for that. Bruce is one of the PE teachers at 7 Bar Elementary and Kathy is the Guest Services Manager at the Marriott. That night, Bruce, his wife Bonnie and his son Taylor took me out to dinner.
Along the bike trail on Saturday, I met Sandy, a native New Yorker on my way to Bruce's house. She was a PE teacher at one time. She also taught many years as a Special Educator. She is an avid cyclist.
Saturday afternoon, I had to fix my trailer as one of the wheels fell off and I almost crashed. Luckily, Rike and Leo came to my rescue and we went to Lowe's to remedy the situation for $2.36. They then took me hiking. We also drove through many Native American Pueblos.
After the hike, we all went to Bruce's house for dinner; which was very good. I was to stay with Bruce and his family for the night. They would be leaving on a college visit in southern New Mexico for their daughter Tori, in the morning.
On Sunday afternoon, Rike and I cycled to the San Felipe Pueblo (part of my route north). It was so nice to ride with her, even if there was a headwind almost the whole way. We stopped to have lunch at a Mexican eatery. I had the combination plate. It was yummy.
That night, they took me to their friends Mary Ann and Bruce's house where we had a wonderful St. Patrick's meal.
On Monday morning, Rike took me to the spot where we had stopped yesterday. We first went to the building where Leo works, so we could say farewell for now.
It was really hard to leave Albuquerque. As I said earlier, I met so many nice people and made close strong connections with them in such a short period of time.
Out of the Mountains
March 21st, 2011
I have been in the mountains and out of touch. This has again caused me to be behind on my blog postings again.
I am going to give you an update by areas that I have visited: Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos and the small mountain towns that I have recently been passing through.
I have been in the mountains and out of touch. This has again caused me to be behind on my blog postings again.
I am going to give you an update by areas that I have visited: Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos and the small mountain towns that I have recently been passing through.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Old Town Albuquerque
Today was going to be a rest day for me. I was tired.
I had talked with a teacher about going to some schools on Friday, which was perfect.
I would also be staying with her and her family that night.
I had my breakfast that was included at the hostel, packed up and rode through the downtown area of Albuquerque. I really like the downtown and there were a lot of people out and about.
I then proceeded to the Old Town section of the city. I really loved this!
There are shops and places to eat in this small section of the city. It is very quaint.
It was a perfect place for me to rest up and take in the atmosphere, before I headed to the northwest section of the city.
I started riding to Rike's house later in the afternoon. I met here husband Leo, shortly after I had arrived.
We all hit it off right away.
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